Daily Figures Edition No Sign-Up Free Forever Vol. XII — No. 204
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Turkey Size Calculator

Find the turkey weight for your guests, plus thaw and roast times.

Turkey size
Whole bird.
Details
Thaw time (fridge)
Roast time (325°F)
Leftovers-friendly
Guests
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How the Turkey Size Calculator Works

Plan on about 1.25 pounds of whole turkey per guest — that accounts for the bones and leaves a little for seconds. Bump it to 1.5 pounds a head if you want plenty of leftovers. This calculator sizes the bird for your guest count and estimates the two times that catch people out: thawing (about a day in the fridge for every 4–5 pounds) and roasting (roughly 13 minutes per pound unstuffed at 325°F).

Always confirm the turkey is done with a thermometer — 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh — rather than by time alone.

turkey weight = guests × ~1.25 lb

Frequently Asked Questions

How big a turkey do I need?

About 1.25 pounds per guest, or 1.5 pounds for good leftovers. Eight guests need roughly a 10-pound bird.

How long to thaw a turkey?

In the fridge, about one day for every 4–5 pounds — so a 12-pound turkey takes around 3 days.

How long to cook a turkey?

Roughly 13 minutes per pound unstuffed at 325°F, but always check it reaches 165°F internally.

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